What is the best island in Bali?

Bali is undoubtedly amazing, but sometimes you just want something a little different. Maybe a wilder coastline. A quieter beach. A turtle or two. As it turns out, some of the best islands in Bali aren’t Bali at all, they’re its stunning little sisters, just a short ferry hop away!

With each one bringing its very own flavor to the table, the hardest part is choosing just one. So, which slice of paradise fits you the best? Let’s break it all down, one vibe at a time!

• Bali’s most breathtaking island escape
• A beach lover’s daydream
• The ultimate turtle snorkeling spot
• The easiest escape from Bali
• Sunset vibes, sorted
• A peaceful hideaway off the radar
• For the thrill-seekers
• Islands made for hopping
• Lovebirds, this one’s for you
• Too long, didn’t read? Start here

What’s the most beautiful island near Bali?

If we’re talking drama, Nusa Penida steals the spotlight. Picture this: cliffs that plunge into neon-blue water, beaches tucked away in craggy coves, and manta rays gliding past your toes. It’s wild. It's rugged. It’s ridiculously photogenic.

Don’t miss:

• Kelingking Beach, also known as the T-Rex Cliff
• Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool with a serious wow factor
• Snorkeling with giant manta rays at Manta Point (yes, really)

Nusa Penida is Bali’s untamed little sister: beautiful, bold, and not for the faint-hearted.

Tip: for more details, ideas and inspiration, check out our guide for planning a day trip to Nusa Penida.

The iconic Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida

Which island has the dreamiest beaches?

When it comes to lazy days and sandy toes, Gili Trawangan is where it’s at. This island’s all about chill days and electric nights.

Why it wins:

• You can snorkel with turtles right off the beach
• Sunset bars that crank up the vibe with beanbags and beats
• No cars, no motorbikes, just bikes, bare feet, and horse carts

Want to unplug without going off-grid? Gili T's got your name written in the sand.

The pristine white sands of Gili Trawangan

Where can I swim with turtles near Bali?

Meet the turtle twins: Gili Meno and Gili Air. Both are slow-paced, sweet, and snorkeling heaven.

• Gili Meno is super quiet—think honeymoon-worthy silence, hammocks, and endless sea.
• Gili Air has a bit more buzz—think live music, cozy cafés, and yoga at sunrise.

Just grab a mask and dip in—these waters are turtle territory.

Slow and steady wins the race (and the ocean)

What’s the easiest island to reach?

Short on time? Nusa Lembongan is your perfect match. Just 30 minutes on the Bali-Nusa Lembongan ferry, and you'll be enjoying a tropical island escape in no time!

Top picks:

• Glide through the mangroves by kayak
• Ride the surf or paddleboard your way to bliss
• Sip something cold at a cliff bar while the sun goes down

Easy to get to. Hard to leave.

Barefoot beach breaks and island vibes on Nusa Lembongan

Where are the best sunsets?

Gili Trawangan, again, takes the cake. Head to the west side for front-row seats to Bali’s best golden hour. We’re talking beach swings in the sea, chilled drinks, and sky colors you didn’t know existed.

Sunset here isn’t just a moment—it’s a vibe.

Golden hour magic on Gili Trawangan

Best island for peace and quiet?

Need to tune out the noise? Gili Meno is your slow-living sanctuary. With fewer tourists and zero hustle, this place whispers: relax.

• Perfect for couples, honeymooners, or solo soul-searchers
• No nightlife—unless you count stargazing
• Long walks, soft sand, and quiet mornings

Sometimes, doing nothing is everything.

Sun-drenched days in Gili Meno

Where should adventurers go?

Thrill-seekers, this one’s for you: Nusa Penida. This island doesn’t hand over its secrets easily—you’ll have to hike, scoot, and sweat for the best bits. But oh, is it worth it.

Your adrenaline checklist:

• Trek to Diamond Beach (those stairs are no joke!)
• Ride cliffside roads with views for days
• Discover secret snorkeling spots only locals know

This is Bali’s wild card. Play it right, and it’ll blow your mind.

Diamond Beach, a stairway to beach heaven on Nusa Penida

Best islands for hopping around?

Why settle for one when you can visit three? Jump between Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida, they’re so close you’ll feel like a local.
What’s cool:

• They’re connected by a funky yellow bridge
• Each has a different vibe (Lembongan = chill, Ceningan = charm, Penida = wild)
• Perfect for a long weekend or a DIY island crawl

This is your no-fuss, max-fun island trio. 

Good to know: take a look at our guide on island-hopping from Bali for more details.

 

Adrenaline rush at Nusa Ceningan's Blue Lagoon

Best island for a honeymoon

For romance with just enough buzz, say hello to Gili Air. It’s got the cozy charm of Meno and the liveliness of Gili T, without the party overload.
Why lovers love it:

• Ocean-view villas and beachfront bungalows
• Dreamy sunset dinners and massages for two
• Friendly locals and great food

It’s the kind of place where time slows down—and love stories speed up.

Sinking into the sunset, Gili Air style

TL;DR: Which island is the best Bali island?

Honestly? It depends on your vibe. Here’s a cheat sheet:

• Nusa Penida for thrills, views & raw beauty
• Nusa Lembongan for convenience & chill
• Nusa Ceningan for the low-key charm & photo ops
• Gili Trawangan for social vibes & sunsets
• Gili Meno for romance & serenity
• Gili Air for balance & barefoot luxury

Ready to find your slice of paradise?

Whether you're chasing sea turtles, sipping sunset cocktails, or craving a cliffside hike, the perfect island in Bali and beyond is waiting for you! Hop on a ferry, leave the chaos behind, and let the island life begin. Book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper for your next adventure and it’s all smooth sailing from here!